Derby County reserves kick off their 2004-05 campaign this evening with a home fixture against their opposite numbers from Southampton.
Previous years have seen the Pride Park second string win the title for the first two years of the competition, and last year they achieved a very creditable runners up slot.
There have been changes over the summer to the Academy system, which could affect their chances of success this time out. Under 17 and Under 19 competitions have been abolished to be replaced by Under 16 and Under 18.
The end result of this has seen the Rams, presumably in line with other clubs release a number of players who are too old for the new format but not good enough to make the senior squads.
With a small first team squad to start with those turning out for the reserves will be both young and inexperienced, and when you consider that they will be up against the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea who will have to give their fringe players games.
The season ahead is likely to be hard for Steve Taylors’ youngsters.
The match kicks off at 7.00pm at Pride Park.